Credits:

Evgeny Kissin

Description:

[The complete "Ballades" by Keesin, released in the year of Chopin's death (150th anniversary of Chopin's death). Chopin's four "Ballades" are "sonic tale-poems" inspired by the Polish patriotic poet Mickiewicz, and in which the composer's Romantic personality is expressed to the highest degree. Each has its own unique style and is a profound masterpiece that ranks alongside the "24 Preludes" among Chopin's works. Keesin's perfectly controlled articulation and timbre highlight the individuality imprinted in each piece. The coupling pieces are also well worth listening to: "Boat Song," with its long-lasting exuberance; "Lullaby," the ultimate in delicacy; and Scherzo No. 4, with its agile and supple pianism. This is the first release in the series. ◇Blu-spec CD2 / Year of recording: August 5-7, 1998 / Location: SWR Studio, Freiburg

Tracklisting:

1 BALLADE NO.1 IN G MINOR. OP.23 / Evgeny Kissin
2 BALLADE NO.2 IN F MAJOR. OP.38 / Evgeny Kissin
3 BALLADE NO.3 IN A FLAT MAJOR. OP.47 / Evgeny Kissin
4 BALLADE NO.4 IN F MINOR. OP.52 / Evgeny Kissin
5 BERCEUSE IN D FLAT MAJOR. OP.57 / Evgeny Kissin
6 BARCAROLLE IN F SHARP MAJOR. OP.60 / Evgeny Kissin
7 SCHERZO NO.4 IN E MAJOR. OP.54 / Evgeny Kissin